Let's Make a Difference

Lowcountry of South Carolina

Our mission

To enhance the lives of individuals with disabilities by providing Special Olympics sports and recreation as well as programs which facilitate social interaction. We believe everyone in our community deserves the opportunity to engage in a healthy, active lifestyle.

PHILOSOPHY OF SERVICE

SOAR is committed to supporting people with disabilities in their pursuit to live, play, and participate in the community. We do so by partnering with individuals, families, and local agencies to explore recreation and social opportunities.

WHAT WE DO

Special Recreation organizes and oversees Special Olympic programs which include: tennis, equestrian, bowling, swimming, bocce and cheerleading. This new program will also be developing opportunities for social activities after school, on weekends and throughout the summer for special needs people of all ages.

Special Olympic Release and Physical Forms

Partners

Without the support and cooperation of these organizations, SOAR would not be possible. Thank you.

Heroes on Horseback

Sponsors

Thank you to these outstanding contributors. If you are interested in becoming a sponsor, contact us.

Kathy and Julie being awarded funding by the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, Inc.

Donate

We appreciate in kind donations, as well as monetary. Thank you for your contribution.

Help Kids, Like Josh

I am privileged to know a young man named Josh. He is a citizen of Beaufort County, a member of our community, big-hearted, generous, kind, and quite frankly, extremely entertaining. Josh has an intellectual disability. Some of the ways it manifests itself are thus: He talks. A LOT. He fidgets. He bounces. He is anxiety-ridden. I have been fortunate to be Josh's yoga instructor on a number of occasions. Here's what happens: 10 minutes into yoga class, he stops bouncing. 20 minutes: stops fidgeting. 30 minutes: stops talking. By the end of class, lying in relaxation pose, he is still. This stillness provides immeasurable goodness to him, both physically and mentally. After class, he carries a slice of this peace within him throughout the day. Is it reasonable to expect Josh to attend a "regular" yoga class, where his presence could cause disquiet to other patrons and he could feel uncomfortable, thereby increasing his anxiety? No. Is it reasonable to expect that Josh should be allowed a yoga class, in a venue where he is comfortable and with an experienced, compassionate instructor? Yes. Yes, it is. It is not just reasonable; it is his right. As a citizen, member of our community, and valuable human being.

Please help us bring Josh, as well as many like him, a yoga practice. Please help us give him stillness, peace, value, and a place in our community.